The Challenge…

Combatting sexual abuse in Sri Lanka

The Challenge

In Sri Lanka, girls who have survived sexual abuse and have the courage to take their perpetrator to court are placed in protective shelters during their court cases. While living in these shelters, they are isolated from their community and do not have access to formal schooling; Consequently, without programs like those that Emerge offers, these young women lack the education, skills, and capital to be self-sufficient when they transition back into communities. Without a support network or skills, and facing incredible societal stigma, it is easy for these young women to be exploited.

Child sexual abuse in Sri Lanka

14.6%

of men in Sri Lanka have perpetrated rape [1]

84%

of reported rape victims are under 18 years old [2]

97%

of abusers in Sri Lanka are known to their victim [3]

Victims face tremendous obstacles

Victims often suffer from severe PTSD, struggling to overcome past trauma and believe in their own capacity to take control of their lives

In the case of pregnancy, abortion is illegal and minors are not old enough to give children up for adoption

Societal stigma can make it to find work, housing, educational opportunities, or even allies

Integrating into society after years of living in an institution, where they lacked access to formal education or the outside world, leaves girls vulnerable to unsafe relationships and work